Three band P53 Enfield with an 1861 dated lock plate. The lock plate and barrel proof marks indicate that this rifled musket was produced in Birmingham, England. The English walnut stock is in good condition, with the normal wear and dings associated with 155 years of use. There are no cracks anywhere on the wood. There are no visible cartouches to be seen on the stock. However, the initials WTH are carved on the left side of the stock in English script. The initials WH are carved on the flat of the stock opposite the lock plate. While both the North and South used these weapons, it is well known that Confederate soldier's loved to carve their names, initials and unit on all their equipment. This was done partly out of a sense of pride, but mostly as a practical means of keeping up with one's equipment. The Southern soldier never knew when he would be resupplied or reequipped. The lock plate is stamped 1861 over TOWER with a crown behind the hammer. The hammer locks up perfectly in half cock and full cock and aligns squarely with what looks to be the original nipple. The markings on the .577 caliber barrel are Birmingham proof marks. The original ramrod, with threaded portion intact, still accompanies the gun. The bore is in good condition with no pitting. The rear ladder sight is graduated out to 900 yards. The brass trigger guard and butt plate fit the stock like a glove. There appear to be Roman numerals scratched into the top of the butt plate. This is an honest example of an early Civil War rifled musket that most likely saw Confederate service.

Item # AA707

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